WILLEMSTAD – The Public Prosecutor’s Office on Friday demanded a 48-month prison sentence against Curaçao professional baseball player Jonathan Schoop, with eight months suspended, in a case involving possession of a heavy firearm and ammunition. If the court follows the prosecution’s demand, Schoop would serve 40 months in prison.
The case is part of the investigation known as “Tijger,” which according to prosecutors began in late January after authorities received information that Schoop and several others may have been carrying firearms. Schoop was arrested following the Festival di Tumba together with co-defendant Giviene Basilia.
Prosecutors told the court that investigators found a heavy firearm in Schoop’s vehicle and that DNA belonging to Schoop was detected on the weapon.
Basilia has claimed that the firearm belonged to him. However, the prosecution argued that his statement is not supported by the DNA evidence and questioned its credibility.
The prosecutor also referred to a conversation between Schoop and a person identified by the Public Prosecutor’s Office as “El Caduri.” According to the prosecution, that person asked for a smaller firearm and Schoop allegedly responded that he would see whether he could arrange one.
During a search of Schoop’s home, investigators also found ammunition boxes and other items that prosecutors say point to the presence of firearms. Schoop has denied knowing about the items, saying that many people regularly enter and leave his residence.
During Friday’s hearing, prosecutors also placed the case within the broader context of violence involving rival groups in Curaçao.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office alleged that Schoop has a prominent role within Sta. Maria City, which prosecutors say is involved in a conflict with Buena Vista City. That alleged affiliation is a claim made by the prosecution and has not been established by the court.
The prosecutor also referred to the recent death of “Panda” Zimmerman, which the Public Prosecutor’s Office said may be connected to the conflict between the two groups. Schoop is not accused in the current criminal case of involvement in Zimmerman’s death.
No punishment was requested against co-defendant Basilia. According to the prosecution, there are indications that he may be attempting to take responsibility for the firearm found during the investigation.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office argued that a substantial prison sentence is necessary because of the prevalence of illegal firearms in Curaçao. The prosecutor described the island as having developed into a hub for illegal arms trafficking and said the justice system must send a clear message that unlawful firearm possession carries serious consequences.
Prosecutors also argued that Schoop’s public profile as a professional baseball player gives him a particular responsibility to set an example.
The court will issue its ruling at a later date.